Fill Out Your 680 Form

Completing the Florida Certification of Immunization Form (DH 680) can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to delays or errors in processing. Here are ten mistakes frequently made when filling out this form.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide all necessary information. Each section, from the child's name to immunization dates, must be filled out completely. Leaving out even one detail can render the form invalid.

Another common error occurs with dates. Parents often input the dates of immunizations incorrectly, either by not following the MM/DD/YY format or by leaving spaces blank. It’s crucial to double-check these entries to avoid complications.

Inaccurate recording of immunization doses can also lead to issues. Some individuals might skip doses or mistakenly count them, which could suggest that a child is not fully immunized.

Ignoring the optional fields, such as the child's Social Security number or State Immunization ID, poses another problem. While these sections are optional, providing them can improve record-keeping and facilitate future medical needs.

Additionally, not signing the form is a prevalent mistake. A parental or guardian signature is mandatory for the certification to be considered valid. It is essential to sign in the designated area.

Another oversight occurs when people select the wrong certificate type. There are multiple certificates available for different situations. Choosing the incorrect one can result in further complications.

Omitting the expiration date for a temporary medical exemption is another error. Without this date, the exemption cannot be deemed valid. Ensuring that every section is complete is vital.

Misunderstanding the guidelines can lead to confusion. Many parents forget to consult the referenced resources or fail to follow the outlined immunization schedule, potentially jeopardizing their child’s enrollment in school or daycare.

Another frequent error involves not keeping copies of the completed form. Parents often submit the document without maintaining a personal record. It’s advisable to keep a copy for future reference and to verify what has been submitted.

Finally, failing to review the completed form before submission can lead to overlooked mistakes. Taking a moment to double-check all entries can save time and prevent unnecessary issues down the line.

The Florida Certification of Immunization, commonly referred to as the 680 form, is essential for demonstrating a child's vaccination status for school enrollment and attendance. Other documents typically accompany the 680 form to provide additional context, medical confirmations, or legal authorizations. Below is a list of commonly used forms that align with the 680 form.

• DH Form 150-615: This document includes immunization guidelines for Florida schools, childcare facilities, and family daycare homes. It details the necessary immunizations required for school entry and outlines the process for completing the 680 form.
• Temporary Medical Exemption Form: This form is required when a child cannot receive vaccinations for medical reasons. Parents or guardians must specify the duration for which the exemption applies, ensuring clarity on the child's vaccination status during this time.
• Permanent Medical Exemption Form: Used for children with long-term medical conditions preventing vaccination, this form requires a healthcare provider's verification. It details the specific vaccines the child is exempt from and the reasons supporting the exemption request.
• Form 3040 - Health Examination Report: Often required alongside the 680 form, this report serves to verify a child's overall health status. The health examination may need to be completed by a licensed healthcare provider and is vital for school compliance.

Each of these documents aids in ensuring that a child meets the required health standards for school attendance while providing necessary legal and medical context where applicable.

• Immunization Records Release Form: This document allows parents to grant permission for the release of their child's vaccination records to schools or other entities. Like the 680 form, it involves authorizing access to important health information.
• Certificate of Immunization Compliance: This is used to show that a child's immunizations meet specific state requirements. Similar to the 680 form, it provides a checklist of required vaccinations.
• Medical Exemption Form: This document is completed when a child cannot receive certain immunizations for medical reasons. It parallels Part C of the 680 form by requiring similar documentation of medical contraindications.
• School Enrollment Form: Often required for new students, this form gathers essential information including health details. This is similar to the 680 form's purpose of ensuring compliance for school entry.
• Child Health Assessment: This document provides a comprehensive evaluation of a child's health, including immunization status. It shares the same objective of documenting health information necessary for school attendance.
• State Vaccination Records: A government-issued document detailing a person's vaccination history. This serves a similar function as the 680 form, as both provide proof of immunizations.
• Daycare Enrollment Form: Required in daycare settings, this form often includes health and immunization information. Like the 680 form, it ensures children are adequately protected against preventable diseases.
• Immunization Exemption Form: Used for families that wish to claim personal or religious exemptions from vaccination. This is similar to the 680 form’s sections on exemptions due to medical reasons.
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Authorization Form: This allows for the disclosure of medical information, similar to the 680 form's function of sharing immunization information for enrollment purposes.
• Vaccine Information Statements: These documents provide essential information about vaccines. Like the 680 form, they are educational resources meant to inform parents about immunizations.

When filling out the Florida Certification of Immunization (Form 680), it's essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the process runs smoothly. Here are five actions to take and avoid:

• Do read the instructions carefully before you begin.
• Do ensure all sections are complete with accurate information.
• Do have the necessary vaccination records readily available.
• Do sign and date the appropriate certificate at the end of the form.
• Do double-check the child's age in relation to immunization requirements.

• Don’t leave any fields blank unless specified as optional.
• Don’t provide incorrect or outdated vaccination dates.
• Don’t forget to include the physician's signature.
• Don’t submit the form without necessary supporting documents.
• Don’t ignore guidelines related to medical exemptions if applicable.

• Misconception 1: The FL 680 form is only for children entering kindergarten.

Many people believe that the FL 680 form is solely intended for kindergarten students. In reality, this form is required for all students entering K-12, including preschool and daycare settings. It is essential for maintaining accurate vaccination records across all grade levels.

• Misconception 2: Completing the FL 680 form is optional.

Some parents assume that completing the FL 680 form is not mandatory. However, schools and childcare facilities in Florida require this form as proof that children have received the necessary immunizations. Failure to provide this documentation can result in a child being excluded from school or daycare.

• Misconception 3: Any physician can fill out the form.

While it may seem that any doctor could complete the FL 680 form, it must be filled out by a licensed physician or authorized healthcare provider. This ensures that the vaccination history is credible and meets legal standards.

• Misconception 4: The expiration date for exemptions is not necessary.

Individuals often think that an expiration date on the Temporary Medical Exemption is optional. This is a misunderstanding. A valid expiration date is critical, as it determines when the exemption is no longer applicable and helps ensure timely compliance with immunization requirements.

• Misconception 5: The FL 680 form covers all medical exemptions.

Some may believe that the form can be used for any medical exemption. However, it only provides space for permanent exemptions related to medically contraindicated immunizations. Each exemption must have clear clinical justification to be accepted.

• Misconception 6: Parents can sign the form without consulting a healthcare provider.

There is a misconception that parents can simply certify vaccination records without any healthcare provider input. In fact, a qualified healthcare provider must verify the information before the parent or guardian signs the form, ensuring accuracy and accountability.

• Misconception 7: The form does not require additional records.

Some believe that the FL 680 form is complete in itself and does not require additional documentation. However, parents must attach official vaccination records from the healthcare provider, as these records support the information recorded on the form.

• Misconception 8: Once the form is submitted, no further action is needed.

This misconception leads some to think that the process ends with the submission of the form. In reality, parents should regularly review and update their child's vaccination status, particularly as new immunizations are recommended or mandated by health authorities.

• Misconception 9: Exemptions mean vaccinations are unnecessary.

Some families mistakenly believe that if they receive an exemption, their child does not need any vaccinations. This is not true. Exemptions are specific to certain circumstances and do not negate the overall importance of vaccinations for public health and individual safety.

When filling out the Florida Certification of Immunization Form 680, there are several essential points to keep in mind to ensure smooth processing and compliance with state requirements.

• Accurate Information: It is crucial to enter precise information for the child's name, date of birth, and immunization records. Mistakes can lead to delays or denial of entry into school.
• Document Immunization Dates: Make sure to record the dates accurately for each vaccination dose. Use the format MM/DD/YY as specified to avoid confusion.
• Certificate Completion: Sign and date the appropriate certificate section (A, B, or C) after entering all relevant information. This acts as a certification of the child's immunization status.
• Check for Exemptions: If applicable, be aware of the temporary or permanent medical exemption options available. Proper documentation and a physician's signature are necessary for these exemptions to be valid.
• Guidelines for Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the guidelines from the Florida Department of Health. The publication available at www.immunizeflorida.org/schoolguide.pdf offers helpful instructions and clarity regarding form completion.

By adhering to these guidelines, you ensure that the form is correctly filled out and that your child meets the necessary immunization requirements for school attendance in Florida.